YMCA Project North is an innovative, youth leadership initiative for 12 students in Grades 9-12 from Sarnia and surrounding communities. This unique project will involve participants in a wide variety of leadership development experiences with a special focus on community service and philanthropy. Successful applicants will gain insight into their personal leadership potential and abilities, group dynamics, communication, volunteerism and philanthropy. After months of training, fundraising, research and planning, participants will participate in a trip to Alberta, Canada, where they will partner with local communities and their youth in hands-on community service projects, as well as a guided outdoor adventure to experience unique cultural and natural highlights of northern Canada.